summer prints

Take a Trip to a Print-Lovers Paradise in the Vogue Archive

Photographed by Henry Clarke, Vogue, January 1965

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Fashion has proved itself to be a great source of joy, from extreme escapism on the runways to small objects that are a pleasure to look at. For another dose of reverie, dive into the pages of Vogue from the late ‘60s and early ‘70s. Photographers such as Helmut Newton, Henry Clarke, Franco Rubartelli, and David Bailey showcased spectacular and psychedelic summer prints on models like Jean Shrimpton and Editha Dussler. The results are immensely fun photos that evoke the free-spirited ethos of the era. And if you see summer as an opportunity to wear bold, happy prints, we’ve found six ways to recreate the look. Lose yourself in this set of groovy images from the archive and let summer’s offering of extraordinary printed kaftans, swimsuits, dresses, and more lift your spirits.

Take a trip to a soothing and stylish oasis, a true print lover’s paradise.

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Photographed by Henry Clarke, Vogue, January 1965; All Others: Courtesy Brands/Websites.

Wavy Baby

It’s hard to take your eyes off of these dreamy pieces. The swirling, energetic pastels are transfixing.

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Taller Marmo long wave-print kaftan dress

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Hayward mini shopper tie-dyed bag

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Missoni Mare wrap ankle espadrilles

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Hanne Bloch wave swimsuit

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Photographed by Franco Rubartelli, Vogue, June 1968; All Others: Courtesy Brands/Websites.

Psychedelic Swirl

Stick to a palette of deep blues, vivid reds, and indigos this summer for a strong dose of color therapy.

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Rhode Ella rainbow print mini dress

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Emilio Pucci Beach printed triangle bikini top

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Sophie Monet amulet agate earrings

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Thebe Magugu pleated midi-skirt

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Photographed by Henry Clarke, Vogue, January 1965; All Others: Courtesy Brands/Websites.

Monochromatic Mod

You don’t have to wear color to make a statement. Take this striking black and white look: the graphic and geometric prints speak volumes.

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La Double J clerk shirt

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Mara Hoffman Calida bi-colour bikini top

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Givenchy platform sole flip-flops

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Cala De La Cruz Liliana abstract-print trousers

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Photographed by Helmut Newton, Vogue, January 1973; All Others: Courtesy Brands/Websites.

Retro Tropics

Dip a toe into the retro look with a high-waisted bikini, beaded underarm bag, and a printed wrap skirt.

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Johanna Ortiz Seychelles printed maxi dress

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Lemlem Semira jacquard bikini

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Staud Tommy beaded bag

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Stella Jean printed woven wrap skirt

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Photographed by David Bailey, Vogue, January 1970; All Others: Courtesy Brands/Websites.

Patchwork Paisley

Stay (visually) busy in these mix-and-match prints which are decidedly on the bright side in happy yellows and mellow purples. Not to mention, the bandana print will be everywhere this season.

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Rhode Nala cotton minidress

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Tory Burch Perry mixed-print mini bag

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Faithfull the Brand Anja shirred floral-print swimsuit

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Holiday the Label Kokomo bandana skirt

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Photographed by Henry Clarke, Vogue, December 1966; All Others: Courtesy Brands/Websites.

Groovy Florals

Big, bold ’60s- and ’70s-inspired floral prints make a delightful return for summer 2020 in vibrant, uplifting colors.

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Rixo Emma floral-print modal midi-dress

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Faithfull the Brand floral-print sunhat

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Dodo Bar Or Pamela floral-print bikini top

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La Double J Hendrix pants in big flower